Students research real-time and historic temperature data of U.S. and world locations, and analyze the data using mean, median, and mode averages. Students graph the data and draw conclusions by analyzing the data. Resources include Web sites with real-time data, archived data, temperature-sensitive computer graphics, meteorology, government agencies, and Earth Day information. Students use a calculator or electronic spreadsheet to compile their statistics and then graph the data using a spreadsheet or graph paper. Reasons for extreme temperature changes are explored.

On Air Resource: WHAT'S UP WITH THE WEATHER? NOVA & FRONTLINE on global warming.
Tuesday, April 18, 2000, 9:00 PM.

Graph data, showing how statistics can be skewed using different scales

Interpret and evaluate what the statistics show

Extrapolate future data from current graphs

Use of the Internet: The Internet is used as a tool for Web research, so proper use of search engines must be discussed. Teachers should preview and bookmark useful sites for students before the lesson to save time. Pages with real-time data may be refreshed to keep the current temperatures updated.

This lesson was developed by wNetSchool Master Teacher, Patricia M. Holmes.